Conditions

Crohn’s is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation in the lining of the digestive tract. Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the digestive tract and symptoms vary from person to person. The inflammation is most commonly found in the small intestine and the first section of the large intestine, but Crohn’s can occur anywhere from the mouth to the anus.

Symptoms

• Persistent diarrhea
• Blood in the stool
• Urgent need to move bowels
• Abdominal cramping and pain
• Sensation of incomplete evacuation
• Constipation, which can lead to bowel obstruction
• Reduced appetite and weight loss
• Anemia
• Fever, nausea, fatigue, joint pain

Treatment

While there's no known cure for Crohn's disease, there are ways to manage its symptoms. Treatment is focused on reducing inflammation that triggers the symptoms.

• Anti-inflammatory drugs
• Immune system suppressors
• Antibiotics
• Other doctor recommended medications, such as anti-diarrheals, iron supplements, vitamin B-12 shots, and Calcium and vitamin D supplements
• Nutrition therapy
• Surgery